Government, through the Road Development Agency (RDA), has begun the rehabilitation of 21 kilometres of the Chikumbi-Karubwe (D177) Road in Chongwe District. The project, which started on August 11, 2025, is a joint effort between the RDA Lusaka Region Office and Chongwe Municipal Council.
The D177 road is a strategic corridor linking Lusaka with Chikumbi and Karubwe. Upgrading it will improve access to schools and health centres, reduce travel time, and lower vehicle operating costs. Farmers will be able to transport produce and access inputs more efficiently, boosting household incomes, stimulating the local economy, and supporting regional food security.
The rehabilitation scope includes bush clearing, road formation and compaction, gravelling, culvert installation, erosion protection, drift construction and repair, river training works, and other ancillary works.
Current progress reports show that 11 kilometres of bush clearing and road formation have been completed. Gravel dumping has been done on about 5 kilometres, while 3 kilometres have undergone gravel spreading, watering, and compaction. Overall, the project has reached 35% completion.
The RDA aims to complete road formation and gravelling before the rainy season. Subsequent work will focus on drainage structures and installation of road furniture to ensure durability and safety.
The Chikumbi-Karubwe road upgrade is expected to transform transport in the area, promote economic activity, and improve living standards for communities along the corridor.